Director of Strategy, Academic Initiatives

University of Chicago•Hyde Park, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Strategy for Academic Initiatives provides strategic leadership, administration, and expansion of academic initiatives promoted by the Becker Friedman Institute for Economics (BFI), beginning with the Master of Arts in Economics (MAE) Program. The role supports opportunities to expand economics offerings domestically and internationally, including the MAE Program and designated sub-degrees, specializations, certificates, and related credentials. The programs are intended to combine academic rigor with practical impact and align with BFI’s mission and the University of Chicago’s interdisciplinary tradition. The Director collaborates closely with faculty directors and Economics Department staff to grow enrollment, support student success, manage program budgets, and promote programs to prospective students. The role ensures programs meet University standards, align with institutional goals, and provide a high-quality economics education. The Director works with leaders and staff across the University, including the Dean of Students in the Social Sciences Division, the University Director of Master’s Admissions, Academic and Faculty Services, Career Advancement Services, Student Life, and the Economics Department Chair, to set the direction of designated initiatives. The Director also serves as their day-to-day representative to donors, supporters, and prospective and current students.

Requirements

College or university degree in a related field.
At least 7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Well-versed in the admissions process and timeline.
Able to work occasional evening and weekend hours and travel domestically and internationally.

Nice To Haves

Exceptional written and verbal communication, problem-solving, decision-making, client service, and cross-department collaboration skills.
Exceptional project management and organizational skills, including the ability to meet multiple internal and external deadlines.
Proven ability to design and create new academic programming.
Proven ability to create and track systems for reporting progress.
History of effective collaboration with colleagues.
Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
Understanding of the priorities and goals of the school.
Ability to work discreetly with sensitive and confidential information.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with Directors of the MA programs in Economics to ensure the MAE and professional programming reflect the Economics Department’s curricular mission.
Develop strategic management plans for expanding the MAE Program and lead execution for the ongoing success of other designated initiatives in collaboration with BFI and University leadership.
Serve as the primary contact for students, faculty, and program administrators on strategies for initiative growth and development.
Develop strategies for new academic and professional programs in applied economics, policy, and data science.
Develop strategies for international programs and partnerships with governments and international institutions, including local programming for international students onsite and abroad.
Launch, manage, and scale approved programs in phased and sustainable ways, piloting programs before expansion.
Develop start-up strategies and oversee the administrative team responsible for program delivery.
Oversee promotional webinars and recruitment events, and coordinate with Admissions to drive interest in the MAE and new credentials.
Develop student-placement networks and partnerships, including government agencies, international institutions, private-sector partners, career services, internships, alumni networks, and applied projects with real-world stakeholders.
Identify and mitigate risks related to faculty capacity, differentiation from existing programs, and enrollment.
Monitor relevant worldwide business, alumni, and other trends and issues, and maintain a deep understanding of the UChicago student experience.
Maintain and develop relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including industry leaders, alumni, and academic institutions.
Promote academic programs and support admissions and recruitment, including information sessions, recruiting events, and post-admissions career engagement.
Oversee events and promotion of designated initiatives with Economics Student Affairs staff, targeting prospective students through online platforms and University events.
Work with the BFI Director of Advancement to identify funding opportunities, engage prospective donors, and secure support for the MAE and credential and professional programs.
Foster an inclusive, collaborative learning environment and implement strategies for student engagement, retention, and success.
Manage financial reporting and budgets, including expense and revenue accounting, forecasting, resource allocation, and efficient use of financial assets.
Work with University administration to ensure adequate resources for faculty, students, and program needs.
Represent designated initiatives at internal and external forums, including academic conferences, alumni events, and recruitment activities.
Build relationships with employers, organizations, and academic partners to support student placement and internships.
Plan and develop program objectives and content; research trends and needs and establish program directions accordingly.
Develop and administer program budgets and make or recommend budgetary decisions.
Perform other related work as needed.